James Buchanan outlines the development of the great crisis that culminated in the outbreak of the Civil War at the end of his presidency. He places the polarizing issue of slavery at the center of turmoil, commenting on decades of hardening views on both sides and a growing reluctance against compromise.

James Buchanan outlines the development of the great crisis that culminated in the outbreak of the Civil War at the end of his presidency. He places the polarizing issue of slavery at the center of turmoil, commenting on decades of hardening views on both sides and a growing reluctance against compromise.